The jubilation showed on their faces and in their voices a few days ago when they gathered for dedication ceremonies.

It’s easy to understand their excitement and pride when you consider just what it took to make the park a reality.

Hard work.

Commitment.

Perseverance.

These all roll up into the love Stanley residents have for their community.

With a vision of the park locked firmly in their heads, they spent several years selling peanuts, holding yard and bake sales, putting on golf tournaments and doing whatever it took to raise money for a place to play, exercise and come together as friends and neighbors.

That delightful sense of community is what so many folks across Gaston feel, especially in the small cities and towns that make up a large part of this county.

That coveted trait – real community — is what lured Katherine and Ron Harper to Stanley from their longtime home in Charlotte. In Stanley, the Harpers found a place where people know their neighbors, care for one another, and share in the joys and sorrows of community life.

And when they found it, they showed their gratitude for the warm welcome. Like other Gaston residents who have enjoyed financial success, the Harpers have been especially generous. Their contributions to the new park meant construction – and enjoyment — could begin sooner.

As it turned out, construction was well underway when Mr. Harper passed away last year. Fortunately, he was able to see much of the result of his and his wife’s generosity before his death.

Stanley showed its own generosity by naming the new park in honor of the Harpers, demonstrating the closeness and caring that are hallmarks of community life in Gaston.

As summer nears, kids splash, run and play at Harper Park. Stanley folks of all ages play baseball, volleyball and basketball there. Exercisers go round and round the paved track. Nature lovers have a trail carved out especially for them. Even the community’s pets have a special walking area.

Harper Park is where the community comes together to live, love and laugh with each other.

Your excitement and pride is well-deserved, Stanley. Congratulations on pulling together as a community to build Harper Park.